TRAGEDY: Dying for cell service

Early on the morning of Aug. 14, 2010, a conscientious motorist on Highway 41 observed a driver who clearly didn't belong behind the wheel of an auto. Attempting to prevent vehicular mayhem, the motorist tried to alert authorities, via cell phone, of the potential danger ahead. After losing cell service between Spirit Lake and Blanchard, the first motorist located a "hard line" phone at a business in Blanchard a few minutes later.

Shortly after the caller reached authorities, the erratic driver reached mile marker 32 between Blanchard and Newport, Wash., where she crossed the highway into the opposing lane of traffic and onto the road's shoulder. Here, a senseless and preventable tragedy occurred, changing lives forever.

A 46-year-old Greenacres resident on a bicycle, riding support for a 17-year-old relay race participant, was killed. The teenage racer was hospitalized with serious injuries, and the 31-year-old erratic driver is in jail charged with vehicular manslaughter.

ALL of the above may have been prevented had cell service been available between Spirit Lake and Newport. We are told county politicians haven't yet decided whether Verizon should receive the appropriate zoning on a parcel of land to construct a cell tower.

The citizens of Blanchard and the nearby resort community of StoneRidge have waited long enough to enter the present. We cannot rely on a "911" operator being reachable in an emergency.

Politicians: You're on notice. If you fail to act in the aftermath of this horrific accident, you should be held accountable for future tragedies.

Verizon: You have maintained an iron grasp on providing area cell service for years. Use it or give it up to a cell service provider who will. Can you hear us now?

BOB ‘ZAK' and SHERRY OWCZARZAK

Blanchard